Food banks study how to improve clients’ health

A pilot program through the Alameda County Food Bank is studying how the food bank can help clients who are at-risk for diabetes. Clients receive the regular pantry food, but also receive a specially-tailored box for their needs to use for themselves and their household. They can also choose to receive text messages with tips on nutrition and reminders to exercise. And there is an optional year-long nutrition class.

The Alameda County food bank serves 1 in 5 people in the county, many of whom have high blood pressure or are at risk for other health conditions. Its staff believe that

the future of food banking is no longer about measuring success in terms of the number pounds of food they give out, but rather how they can help people in communities with limited access to health care.